Forest Hill

Forest Hill is one of Toronto’s most prestigious neighborhoods, featuring mansions in Lower Forest Hill that rival those in Rosedale. The area boasts some of the best schools in the country, including two of Canada’s most esteemed private institutions: Upper Canada College for boys and Bishop Strachan School for girls. Forest Hill's diverse topography, with gently sloping hills, winding roads, and numerous charming parkettes, makes it one of Toronto’s most picturesque districts.

History

Forest Hill was incorporated as a village in 1923, named after the summer residence of John Wickson, built in 1860 at the junction of Eglinton Avenue and Old Forest Hill Road. While the hill remains, the forest has been replaced by apartment buildings. Before its incorporation, Forest Hill was known as "Spadina Heights," derived from the First Nations word "Ishapadenah," meaning a hill or sudden rise in land. "Lower Forest Hill," or South Forest Hill, was fully developed by the 1930s. Development in "Upper Forest Hill" was slower due to the presence of the old Belt Line railway and industry.

    • North: Briar Hill Avenue

    • East: Avenue Road

    • South: Bathurst Street

    • West: St Clair Avenue

  • Forest Hill is renowned for its diverse architectural styles and historic homes. Lower Forest Hill is known for its stately mansions and luxury residences, which were mostly developed by the 1930s. In contrast, Upper Forest Hill experienced slower growth due to its industrial past. Over time, this area has transformed into a desirable residential neighborhood with a mix of detached homes, semi-detached houses, and modern townhomes. The neighborhood's development has carefully preserved its historical charm while accommodating contemporary living standards.

    • K-6

      • North Preparatory Junior Public School

      • West Preparatory Junior Public School

    • K-8

      • Forest Hill South Junior and Senior Public School

      • Holy Rosary Catholic School

      • Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School

    • Grade 9-12

      • Forest Hill Collegiate Institute

  • In 1967, Forest Hill Village and Swansea Village were the last two independent villages annexed by the City of Toronto.

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